When it comes to managing pain and inflammation, many tend to reach for the medicine cabinet without a second thought.

Modern medicine has given seniors a range of powerful drugs that could eliminate discomfort and let everyone get on with their lives.

What if these medications, taken by millions around the world, are quietly leaving seniors more vulnerable to infections?

A new study from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) shared their latest findings about commonly used anti-inflammatory medicine.

These drugs, known as Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, are commonly prescribed for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, eczema, alopecia, and bone cancers.

JAK inhibitors commonly go by brand names like Jakafi or Olumiant.

Anti-inflammatory medicines have been in the market for over a decade. Image Credit: Pexels/Kaboompics.com

These medicines work by blocking specific proteins that cause inflammation and pain in the body.

On the surface, these medicines lessen pain and swelling and promote a better quality of life.

However, the NTNU researchers discovered a hidden downside of these medicines.

These drugs also suppress a crucial pathway that protects bodies from viruses.

While JAK inhibitors calm down your overactive immune system, they may also be lowering the body’s natural defences against viruses like the flu, COVID-19 and more.

The study found that these medications slow down genetic activity essential for fighting viral infections.

As a result, viruses gain a stronger foothold in the body and lead to severe illnesses.

‘These genes play a crucial role in the body’s response to viral infections,’ Dr Aleksandr Ianevski, one of the study’s co-authors, explained.

‘By stopping or slowing down this pathway, JAK inhibitors remove the body’s “antiviral shield”.’

The researchers used advanced laboratory techniques to observe how JAK inhibitors affect cells from the lungs, eyes, and the brain.

Their findings suggested that patients taking these drugs, especially those with latent or active viral infections, could be at greater risk of complications.

Learn more about JAK inhibitors in this video:

Source: Mechanisms in Medicine/YouTube​

So, what does this mean for you or your loved ones who take these medicines?

These medications are still highly effective for treating inflammation and autoimmune conditions.

For many people, these drugs are a lifeline that lets them live with less pain and more mobility.

However, the new research suggested that doctors and patients alike should be extra cautious in dispensing these medicines, especially at times when viral infections continue to circulate.

Common side effects of JAK inhibitors include headaches, nausea, fatigue, diarrhoea, acne, and elevated cholesterol.

More rarely, they could cause serious infections like pneumonia or shingles, damage to the stomach or intestines, and changes in blood cell counts.

Dr Sarah Erickson, a hair loss specialist, took to social media to warn about some of the ‘harsh’ side effects she’s seen in her patients.

It’s not all bad news, though.

The researchers pointed out that the immunosuppressive effects of JAK inhibitors could be helpful in controlled settings, such as developing vaccines or screening antiviral drugs.

Yet, for everyday use, especially among seniors or those with chronic conditions, the risks may outweigh the benefits, at least during viral outbreaks or pandemics.

For seniors taking any form of JAK inhibitor, it’s best to talk to a general practitioner or a specialist.

Ask about individual risks, especially if you have a history of infections or if there’s a viral outbreak within your area.

These drugs can be life-changing for many, but it’s essential to stay informed and make decisions based on your condition.

Key Takeaways

• New research from Norway found that Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, common anti-inflammatory drugs for arthritis and eczema, could make people vulnerable to viral infections.
• The drugs work by suppressing immune system pathways that protect healthy cells from viruses, which could allow illnesses like the flu and COVID-19 to take hold easily.
• While JAK inhibitors are effective for inflammation, their side effects still include headaches, fatigue, and diarrhoea, with rarer but more serious risks such as pneumonia or shingles.
• The study’s authors warned healthcare professionals to be extra cautious when prescribing JAK inhibitors, especially during viral outbreaks.

Have you or someone you know experienced unexpected side effects from anti-inflammatory medications? Are you concerned about the risks of viral infections while taking these drugs? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments section below.

 

[Gezzabel]

I was on anti- inflammatory medication for some time. It works wonders, but I ended up in hospital, with serious stomach bleeding.
I needed 4 blood transfusions , and was in ICU. Now, I never touch them. You have to be really careful with using them , and you should speak to your doctor first. Stay safe! Gez Abel.

 

[Danisepenny1953]

I’s Celebrex one of those medications hope not .

 

[BabsL]

Try naming them so ppl can quickly see if any are used in family.

 

[tlecornu]

List the medications please

 

[Zemo]

Would have thought that ALL the names applicable to the medicine (including any generics) woud have appeared in the story. There are at least three on a a Google look-up.

 

[Penny4]

I've never heard of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. Obviously, not the same as our normal prescription anti-inflammatories ie. Mobic or Celebrex.

 

[Jest]

i will stick with my GP, My Oncologist, My endocrinologist, My Cardiologist. and all the other ologist Thank you.

 

[Jest]

I’s Celebrex one of those medications hope not .

i would not take celebrex. that is ME.